Female/immature male

Immature male

Female/immature male

Eurasian Linnet

Identification

Fairly common to common in mostly open country, from wild moorland to rough grassland and weedy patches in urban areas. Like other finches, often forms flocks in autumn and winter; does not usually visit garden feeders. Generally looks small and rather dull, unless male is seen well, when reddish breast, gray head, and rusty-brown back are a distinctive combination. Drab female best identified by face pattern: broad pale crescents above and below eyes, and pale cheek patch. Also note small gray bill, whitish wing and tail flashes like male.